# Build a Real-Time Chat Application
In this tutorial, we'll build a complete real-time chat application using WebSockets. You'll learn how to set up bidirectional communication between the client and server, handle multiple users, and create a polished UI.
## What You'll Build
By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a fully functional chat application with:
- Real-time message delivery
- User presence indicators
- Typing indicators
- Message history
- Multiple chat rooms
## Prerequisites
- Basic knowledge of React and Node.js
- Node.js installed on your machine
- A code editor (VS Code recommended)
## Step 1: Setting Up the Project
Let's start by creating our project structure...
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DIY TutorialIntermediate
Build a Real-Time Chat Application
Learn how to build a fully functional real-time chat app with WebSockets, React, and Node.js from scratch.
January 15, 202445 min read
WebSocketReactNode.jsReal-time